The Journey of a 3rd World Traveler

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Filed under Hostel Diaries …

My work at a local backpacker’s hostel has allowed me to interact with individuals from all over the world. I would like to share some of what I’ve learned or experienced while talking to or dealing with them. This is PEOPLE STORIES: I. The Artist When we travel, we meet many people along the way. We forge a connection … Continue reading →

“Writing is something that you don’t know how to do. You sit down and it’s something that happens, or it may not happen. ” – Charles Bukowski It never did, until today. As I type this, I am in a backpacker’s hostel in Metro Manila, not as a guest, but as an employee. On a regular day, I … Continue reading →

It can be difficult to find a place of refuge in Metro Manila. After all, it’s a developing city with crowded streets, honking cars, rambunctious vendors screaming “dibidi!”, and riot bus rides. But visitors who have had enough of Manila’s grind can rest knowing that somewhere in the Business District of this unpredictable city lies … Continue reading →

Guide books exist for obvious reasons: to guide, instruct, recommend or give the reader a plethora of options. Ignoring a guide book’s suggestion is forgivable, but not heeding a warning is a mortal sin. While in Myanmar, I decided not to book an accommodation after Yangon to make my journey more exciting. I’ve tried this … Continue reading →

Earlier today, I came across a few negative reviews on Nga Hoang Hotel in Ho Chi Minh/Saigon. I was surprised because I found my overnight stay last year quite pleasant. What I am about to address is an issue that almost all negative reviewers pointed out. Just to let you know, I am not in … Continue reading →

My cousin’s son sent me an email asking for a good place to stay in Ho Chi Minh / Saigon. Since I’ve been to Saigon twice, my experience has allowed me to stay in different places. Here’s a brief review of the hostels/hotels I’ve stayed at: a. In 2009, my friend and I stayed at … Continue reading →